Teen who died after sparring at boxing club in Burbank is identified

The 16-year-old boy who died Thursday night after sparring at Pullman’s Gym in Burbank has been identified by authorities as Raul Alvarez Jr.

Raul died Thursday after suddenly falling unconscious at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center, where he was brought at about 6:45 p.m. when he complained of pain at Pullman’s, police said.

A handwritten sign on the door of Pullman’s Gym Friday morning said the business would remain closed for a few days “in honor of Raul.”

Burbank police Sgt. Darin Ryburn said it was an "unfortunate accident," adding that the North Hollywood teen was wearing protective gear around his head and lower body at the time he was sparring.

Raul was sparring with someone about his same age and build, and gym staff members were on site supervising, Ryburn said.

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It is unknown if the teen had any previous medical conditions, Ryburn added.

Calls to the gym, located in the 4300 block of West Magnolia Boulevard, went unanswered Friday morning. The gym offers a range of teen and adult boxing classes on its website and touts itself as being equipped with “the best gear.”

An investigation into the teen’s death by the Los Angeles County coroner was pending.